Holy Spirit implements no-nicotine hiring policy effective April 1

CAMP HILL – Starting on April 1, 2015, Holy Spirit–A Geisinger Affiliate will no longer hire job applicants who use tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars and chewing or smokeless tobacco.

“Holy Spirit is joining numerous hospitals and medical organizations across the country that are encouraging healthier living, decreasing absenteeism and reducing health care costs by adopting strict policies that require non-nicotine use by job applicants,” said Lori Moran, Director of Public Relations and Marketing. “Our mission is healing and good health, so it is important for us to set a good example for our patients and community.”

Non-nicotine hiring policies are legal in 21 states, including Pennsylvania. The policy also affects any applicants receiving offer letters as of April 1. During the hiring process, all applicants, including those seeking full and part time positions, flex, volunteers and students will be tested for nicotine as part of the routine drug screening. The test, which will include screening for cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, snuff, nicotine patches and nicotine gum, only detects active nicotine users, not those exposed to second-hand smoke.

“Applicants who test positive for nicotine use are welcome to re-apply in six months provided they are nicotine free at that time,” Moran said. “Information on smoking cessation resources will be provided to any applicant who tests positive for nicotine.”

Current employees are not affected by this new policy, but are encouraged to take advantage of the tobacco cessation programs offered through Holy Spirit’s employee wellness program.

Geisinger Health System implemented its non-nicotine hiring policy in 2012. Holy Spirit became an affiliate of Geisinger in 2014.